The Villas of Hollybrook will be holding an open house on Saturday to celebrate their one year anniversary. The open house will be held from 2-4 pm. Lisa Schmitz of the Villas of Hollybrook says that she’s inviting everyone to come to the event.

[audio:LisaSchmitzClip062912.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Schmitz says that there will be some entertainment at the open house.

[audio:LisaSchmitzClip02062912.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Schmitz says that almost all of the apartments at the Villas are occupied.

[audio:LisaSchmitzClip03062912.mp3]comment here[/audio]

The Villas of Hollybrook is located on Rte. 16 in Shelbyville, across from the Johnstowne Mall

Assumption Fest is up and running after its start on Thursday. Angela Marsters, Committee Chairwoman of Assumption Fest says that the Grand Parade is coming up on Saturday.

[audio:AngelaMarstersClip062912.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Marsters also says that there is going to be a lot going on, on Saturday night at the fest.

[audio:AngelaMarstersClip02062912.mp3]comment here[/audio]

This is the 83^rd Annual Assumption Fest.

>>Cardinals Host Bucs

The St. Louis Cardinals open up a three-game series against the Pittsburgh Pirates this evening at Busch Stadium.  Adam Wainwright gets the nod opposite Kevin Correia in the opener.  The Cards had a five-game winning streak snapped with a 5-3 loss at Miami on Wednesday to fall to 40-and-36 on the season.

>>White Sox Rally To Top Yankees
(Bronx, NY)  --  Dayan Viciedo hit a three-run homer in the top of the ninth to give the White Sox a 4-3 comeback win over the Yankees.  Alejandro De Aza went 4-for-5 with a solo homer for Chicago in the opener of the four-game set.  Hector Santiago was credited with his second win.  Addison Reed nailed down his 11th save.  Jose Quintana gets the nod opposite Adam Warren in tonight's second installment.
>>Cubs Host Houston
(Chicago, IL)  --  The Chicago Cubs open up a three-game series against the Houston Astros this afternoon at Wrigley Field.  Paul Maholm [[ muh-HALL-um ]] will toe the rubber against Bud Norris in the opener.  The Northsiders took two-of-three from the New York Mets in their last series, but suffered a 17-1 loss in Wednesday's finale to fall to 26-and-49 on the season.

>>Leonard Drafted By Blazers
(Newark, NJ)  --  The much-anticipated 2012 NBA Draft took place last night at the Prudential Center in Newark, New Jersey.  Illinois center Meyers Leonard was selected by the Portland Trail Blazers with the 11th pick in last night's draft.

>>NFL Adjusting Start Times Of Doubleheader Games
(New York, NY)  --  The NFL is adjusting the start times for its Sunday doubleheader games.   Rather than 4:15 p.m. Eastern, the second wave of doubleheader Sunday games on CBS and FOX will now start at 4:25 p.m. Eastern.  The 4:05 p.m. Eastern kickoff for games not on the doubleheader network will remain unchanged. Over the last three seasons, the NFL concluded that 44 games required part of the audience to be switched from the end of a 1 p.m. Eastern game to a mandatory doubleheader kickoff.  With a start time of just ten minutes later, that number would have been reduced to only 15 games.  The adjustment will impact about 40 games this season.

The Christian County Sheriff's Department has issued the following arrests.

On Thursday the IHSA has released the official football schedules for the 2012-13 seasons. The Regional Radio Group of stations will broadcast three high school football programs.

On Thursday the IHSA has released the official football schedules for the 2012-13 seasons. The Regional Radio Group of stations will broadcast three high school football programs.

On Thursday the IHSA has released the official football schedules for the 2012-13 seasons. The Regional Radio Group of stations will broadcast three high school football programs.

Larry’s Service Center has a new location in Taylorville across from Taylorville High School.  Larry Barry, the owner of Larry’s Service Center, says that they opened at five a.m. on Thursday.

[audio:LarryBarryClip062812.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Barry says that the new building took 120 work days to finish.

[audio:LarryBarryClip02062812.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Barry says that the move has already got him some new customers.

[audio:LarryBarryClip03062812.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Larry’s Service Center moved from their previous location at 401 North Webster Street because of environmental concerns.

The Christian County Sheriff’s Office, in cooperation with the Assumption Police Department, is investigating a series of reports of criminal damage to vehicles, along with thefts from garages which happened in the early morning hours of Monday, June 25^th Assumption.

Deputies from the Christian County Sheriff’s Office, along with the Assumption Police Department, responded and have conducted an investigation. As a result it was determined that approximately 39 vehicles sustained damage including forty-seven 47 slashed tires there were also three 3 garages were burglarized and items removed.

This matter remains under investigation by the Christian County Sheriff's Office.

If you have any information concerning this or any other crime, you should notify the Christian County Sheriff’s Office at 824-4961, your local law enforcement agency or Christian County Crime Stoppers at 1-800-568-TIPS or 824-9100.

Many people may notice that the old Long John’s Silver’s property in Taylorville is getting a facelift. As previously reported by Regional Radio News the property will become a Quiznos. Don Broaddus the owner of the property says that there has been a lot of work done on the building.

The recent announcement of the cut of an estimated 200 jobs to Regional Offices of Education (R.O.E.) around the state of Illinois has some people wondering, if their district is affected.

Marchelle Kassebaum the Regional Superintendent of Christian and Montgomery Counties, says that this cut will not affect her R.O.E.

[audio:marchellekassebaumClip062712.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Kassebaum says that she understands why there needs to be cuts.

[audio:marchellekassebaumClip02062712.mp3]comment here[/audio]

This cut was agreed upon by Governor Pat Quinn and Bob Daiber (Dy-ber), the President of the Illinois Association of Regional Superintendents of Schools.

Most of Illinois is in a drought currently that could hurt farmers all across the state. Central Illinois has also been hit with the dry weather.

There is a new candidate in the race for the Illinois 13^th Congressional District for US Congress. John Hartman is an Independent Candidate for the seat.

The Taylorville Park Board held a meeting last night and many issues were discussed at the meeting. One of the main issues brought up was the termite problem that has been killing trees off in the park.

President of the Park Board Marlane Miller says that she does not want this issue to continue.

[audio:MarlaneMillerClip062612.mp3]comment here[/audio]

The termite issue will be discussed further in future park board meetings.

Another issue discussed were possible safety hazards.

Kelly Bland the Director of Park Operations and Finance says that although there were some hazards, Park Maintenance Superintendent Gary Brown has fixed many of them since their discussion.

[audio:KellyBlandParkBoardClip062612.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Also brought up in the Park and Finance Director report at the meeting was the increase in pool passes purchased.

Bland says that there is one key reason why there has been an increase in pool passes purchased.

[audio:KellyBlandParkBoardClip02062612.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Other issues brought up at the meeting was the ordinance of 2012-14 notice of Christian County Prevailing Wage Rate which was mandatory and passed unanimously. Another issue was the Resolution 2012-15 to adopt the Taylorville Park District Safety Policy Statement and Safety and Health Manual to prevent accidents and provide a safe environment for employees and for the general public. This resolution passed unanimously as well. Also brought up at the meeting was a quote on the air conditioning unit at the Manner’s Park Pool which has broken. There was a quote received from Yard Heating and Cooling, and Option 2 of three options was accepted which was one Trane three ton air conditioning unit, one suction line filter, one liquid line drier, and a five year parts warranty. The cost of this investment was $2,165.63.

The next park board meeting will be on July 23^rd.

The Shelbyville Rotary Club recently held a meeting that included a guest speaker. Janie Oldfield, Executive Director of the Effingham Performance Center says that she thinks the people of the rotary club are interested in the economic impact of the center.

[audio:janieoldfieldClip062512.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Oldfield says that the center has some special programs for kids of all ages.

[audio:janieoldfieldClip02062512.mp3]comment here[/audio]

You can contact the Effingham Performance Center at 540-2788.

Illinois Lawmakers are putting pension talks on hold. Governor Quinn says the delay doesn't mean they're not serious about resolving the pension liability. State Representative Wayne Rosenthal of Morrisonville says that he does not want local schools to get hit with the pension costs.

>>Cards Pound Royals

(Kansas City, MO)  --  Carlos Beltran hit his
20th home run of the season, a three-run shot in the first inning, to help the
Cardinals beat the Royals, 11-8.  Allen Craig was 2-for-4 with two RBI and Matt
Holliday went 1-for-2 with two runs scored and two RBI as the St. Louis swept
Kansas City to move three games above .500.  After a scorching start to the
year, Lance Lynn gave up five earned runs or more for his second straight
outing.  Reliever Victor Marte earned the win.  The Cards open a three-game set
with the Marlins in Miami tonight.  Jake Westbrook will get the start against
Ricky Nolasco.

>>Snakes Sweep Cubs

(Phoenix, AZ)  --  Justin Upton plated three
runs to back eight strong innings from Wade Miley as the Diamondbacks cruised to
a 5-1 win over the Cubs yesterday afternoon at Chase Field.  Alfonso Soriano's
solo dinger in the seventh inning accounted for Chicago's lone run of the game. 
Matt Garza gave up three runs in seven innings of duty to suffer the loss.  The
Cubs have dropped four in-a-row and six of their last eight.  The Northsiders
return to Wrigley Field this evening to open up a three-game series against the
New York Mets.  Travis Wood gets the nod opposite Johan Santana in the opener.


>>White Sox Sneak Past Brewers

(Chicago, IL) --  Eduardo Escobar hit a pinch-hit RBI single in the bottom of the 10th to give
the White Sox a 1-0 win over the Brewers yesterday at The Cell.  Jose Quintana
dealt eight scoreless innings with four strikeouts, but it was Brian Bruney who
grabbed his first win of the season.  Alejandro De Aza and Gordon Beckham each
had two hits for Chicago, which took two-of-three from Milwaukee.  The
Southsiders head to Target Field this evening to kick off a three-game series
against the Minnesota Twins.  Jake Peavy will toe the rubber against Francisco
Liriano in the opener.

>>Bears' Forte May Miss Camp, But Not Season

(Chicago, IL)  --  Despite still looking for a long-term contract, Chicago Bears running back
Matt Forte [[ for-TAY ]] plans to play this season.  He told the Bears radio
network that he might not show up to training camp on time but it's unlikely
he'll hold out during the regular season if he doesn't get a new deal.  The
Bears put the franchise tag on Forte, who has yet to sign his $7.7-million
tender.

Pride Packages in Shelbyville has been sending soldiers care packages that do not get sent packages for seven years. Pat Garlick the creator of Pride Packages says that it started with one soldier who served with her son.

The Spurlihg Title Building on the south side of the Taylorville square, is getting a facelift.  The building's second story was recently scraped, and a new coat of paint is being applied.  Motorists should caution when traveling on the south side of the Taylorville square, until the work is completed.

The State Fair Mega-Pass is now on sale. The 55-dollar pass is good for access to an unlimited number of rides in Adventure Village and the Carnival Midway all ten days of the fair plus Preview Night. It doesn't include admission or rides on the Tram, Giant Slide and Sky Glide. The passes are being sold in the Emmerson Building on the Illinois State Fairgrounds in the Mega Pass Office, which is open on weekdays from 8:30 a.m. until 4:30 p.m.

If you're planning to purchase the pass, you may want to get it before July 16th. After that the price will jump to 65-bucks. The Mega Pass Office accepts cash and credit cards, but not personal checks. The Illinois State Fair will be held August 6th through 19th.

A handy new tool is available for people interested in keeping a close eye on campaign contributions. Illinois Comptroller Judy Baar Topinka has launched the "Open Book" database, which let's you follow the money in campaigns. The database compares state contracts with campaign contributions and gives users a portal of transparency in state government.

It lists every dollar donated and combines information from the Comptroller's accounting system with the Illinois State Board of Elections semi-annual campaign finance disclosure reports. To check it out, go to Openbook.IllinoisComptroller.com.

>>Tigers Clip Cards In Ten

(Detroit, MI) -- Quintin Berry grounded a bases-loaded single up the middle in the bottom of the 10th inning to give the Tigers a 2-1 win over the Cardinals. Matt Holliday lofted a sac-fly in the fifth to tie the game at one for St. Louis. Victor Marte [[ mar-TAY ]] took the loss. Kyle Lohse [[ Loash ]] threw seven innings of one-run ball for the Cards. St. Louis starts a three-game set with Kansas City tonight.

>>Cubs In Arizona

(Phoenix, AZ) -- The Chicago Cubs kick off a three-game series against the Arizona Diamondbacks this evening at Chase Field. Jeff Samardzija [[ suh-MARD-juh ]] gets the nod opposite Joe Saunders in the opener. The Northsiders took two-of-three from the White Sox in their last set to improve to 24-and-45 on the season.

>>White Sox On The Diamond

(Chicago, IL) -- The Chicago White Sox are back on the diamond this evening as they open up a three-game series against the Milwaukee Brewers at The Cell. Chris Sale will go up against Zack Greinke [[ GRAIN-key ]] in game one. The Southsiders dropped two-of-three to the Cubs in their last set, but won Wednesday's finale to improve to 36-and-33 on the season.

>>'Hawks Released 2012-13 Regular Season Schedule

(Chicago, IL) -- The Chicago Blackhawks have released their 2012-13 regular season schedule. The 'Hawks open up their campaign against the Columbus Blue Jackets on Saturday, October 13th at the United Center. Their first road game is on Tuesday, October 16th versus the Winnipeg Jets at the MTS Centre.

>>Blues Release 2012-13 Regular Season Schedule

(St. Louis, MO) -- The St. Louis Blues have released their 2012-13 regular season schedule. The Blues open the season with two road games. Their first contest is in Denver against the Avalanche. St. Louis' first home game is October 18th against the Red Wings.

>>Bulls' Rose Second In International Jersey Sales

(New York, NY) -- Chicago Bulls MVP point guard Derrick Rose is second in the NBA's International jersey sales. Lakers guard Kobe Bryant is tops on the list. Rose had the top-selling jersey in the United States, which is not factored into the international sales total. Rose continues to rehabilitate his surgically repaired knee. Rose was in Alabama earlier this week to consult with renowned Dr. James Andrews and a physical therapist. The 23-year-old injured his ACL on April 28th in Game One of the Eastern Conference quarterfinals. He had surgery on May 12th. The recovery process is 8-to-12 months.

LeBron James' quest for his first NBA championship is complete. James and the Heat beat the Thunder, 121-106, in Game Five of the NBA Finals Thursday night. James logged a triple-double with 26 points, 11 rebounds and 13 assists in the series-clinching victory. James was named Finals MVP after averaging 28.6 points, 10.2 rebounds and 7.4 assists in the series.

The 27-year-old James, who famously left the Cleveland Cavaliers to join the Heat during the 2010 offseason, collected his first NBA title in his ninth season. Miami won the final four games in the best-of-seven series to capture its second title in franchise history. Other notables on Miami's roster to win their first title include veterans Shane Battier and Juwan Howard.

The Christian County Sheriff's Department has issued the following arrests

Brent C. Wells 23 of Pana was arrested on a bond forfeiture warrant for an unspecified statute.

Rian N. Nagle 23 of Assumption was arrested on a bond forfeiture warrant for deceptive practice, an original arrest warrant for an unspecified statute and driving with a revoked license.

On Wednesday officers were advised of a complaint of males smoking cannabis in the Kiwanis Park area. Officers arrived and observed a blue Chevy Blazer. The officers recognized the vehicle, because it has allegedly been involved with drug activity in the past.

Officers spoke with occupants and K9 partner Echo was sent to the scene. After an investigation by Echo and officers on the scene Trevor C. Vaughn 18 of Taylorville was arrested for possession of drug paraphernalia.

Seven of the 12 Okaw Valley Conference schools are looking to part ways. The seven schools are looking to part ways with the conference, and start their own conference. These seven schools are Argenta-Oreana, Central A&M, Macon Meridian, Shelbyville, Sullivan, Tuscola and Warrensburg-Latham. These seven schools are smaller than the five schools they are leaving which include Clinton, Maroa-Forsyth, Monticello, Decatur St. Teresa and Tolono Unity.

Mike Conlin the Athletic Director of Central A&M says that the school is looking for schools closer to their enrollment.

[audio:MikeConlinOkawClip062212.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Conlin says that transportation costs are a big part of possibly leaving the conference.

[audio:MikeConlinOkawClip02062212.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Shelbyville High School is another one of the schools that could be leaving the Okaw Valley. Shelbyville Athletic Director Tony Pullen says that the Okaw Valley is one of the top conferences in the state.

[audio:TonyPullenOkawClip062212.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Pullen says that the decision to stay or leave the Okaw Valley is critical.

[audio:TonyPullenOkawClip02062212.mp3]comment here[/audio]

If the change does occur it will not go into effect until the 2014-15 school year.

The Greater Taylorville Chamber of Commerce recently held another of the monthly "Business After Hours". President and CEO of the Chamber, Patty Hornbuckle, says there is some confusion about who is invited to the events.

[audio:bahpatty062212.mp3]comment here[/audio]

If you would like to receive the announcements regarding the Business After Hours, e-mail the chamber at lindagtcc@consolidated.com.

>>Cards Down Tigers

(Detroit, MI) -- Jake Westbrook went the distance to lead the Cardinals to a 3-1 win over the Tigers in the rubber match of a three-game set. Westbrook allowed an unearned run and five hits while striking out five to improve to 6-and-6. Carlos Beltran went 2-for-2 with a run and two walks in the victory. The Cards and Tigers close out their series today.

>>White Sox Clobber Cubs

(Chicago, IL) -- Gavin Floyd tossed six-and-a-third shutout innings as the White Sox clobbered the Cubs, 7-0. Floyd scattered four hits and a walk while striking out four to improve to 5-and-7. Gordon Beckham homered and plated four to help the Sox avoid a three-game sweep. Adam Dunn, Paul Konerko and Alexei Ramirez plated a run apiece in the win. Randy Wells allowed three runs in only three-and-two-thirds innings to fall to 1-and-2. The Cubs and Sox are both off today.

>>Cubs Head To The Desert

(Phoenix, AZ) -- The Chicago Cubs head to the Valley of the Sun tomorrow evening to open up a three-game series against the Arizona Diamondbacks at Chase Field. Jeff Samardzija [[ suh-MARD-juh ]] gets the nod opposite Joe Saunders in the opener. Paul Maholm [[ muh-HALL-um ]] will start on Saturday and Matt Garza will toe the rubber in Sunday's series finale.

>>ChiSox Host Crew

(Chicago, IL) -- The Chicago White Sox wrap up a six-game homestand tomorrow evening in the opener of a three-game series against the Milwaukee Brewers at The Cell. Chris Sale will go up against Michael Fiers in game one. Phil Humber [[ UMBER ]] gets the nod on Saturday and Jose Quintana will be on the bump Sunday.

>>'Niners Sign Illinois Product

(San Francisco, CA) -- The San Francisco 49ers have signed their top draft pick wide receiver A.J. Jenkins to a four-year contract. The 30th overall pick of the 2012 draft, Jenkins played in 13 games for Illinois last season and totaled 90 catches for 1,276 yards and eight touchdowns. He played in 46 games for the Fighting Illini during his collegiate career and finished third all-time in school history with 167 receptions for 2,432 yards and 19 scores.

The Dudley Smith Farm in Christian County held a Beef Cow-Calf Field Day on Thursday. Amanda Cole, County Extension Director for Christian, Jersey, Macoupin and Montgomery Counties, says that she wants to better inform people of the services that the extension provides.

[audio:AmandaCole0622121.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Ed Ballard who was one of the speakers at the event, and is a retired U of I extension Animal Systems worker says that there is some new stuff going on at Dudley Smith Farm for 2012.

[audio:EdBallard0622121.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Gary Letterly of the U of I Extension Environmental and Energy Stewardship says that this farm is a great resource for Christian County.

[audio:GaryLetterly0622121.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Other speakers at the event included Jacob Segers with the University of Illinois ACES, Animal Science Department, Travis Meteer with the U of I Extension, Mike Vincent of the U of I Extension Crop Sciences Department and Wendy White with the U of I Extension Crop Sciences Department.

One of the biggest events in Christian County is coming up. Assumption Fest will be on June 28-30. Angela Marsters of the Festival’s Board says that Assumption Fest has a long history.

Even though this year’s weather has been surprisingly low on precipitation and hazardous weather, Christian County Emergency Manager Mike Crews says that the weather in Central Illinois can change quickly.

[audio:MikeCrewsClip062112.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Crews has sent information on outdoor events to the National Weather Service. Crews says that the National Weather Service has already helped out with Stonington Fest.

[audio:MikeCrewsClip02062112.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Crews says that there are some ways people can be prepared when going to an outdoor event.

[audio:MikeCrewsClip030621121.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Crews says that there are some ways event planners can be prepared in case of bad weather.

[audio:MikeCrewsClip040621121.mp3]comment here[/audio]

If any group in Christian County is planning an outdoor event and would benefit from the severe weather presentation, please contact the CCEMA at christiancoema@yahoo.com or call 820-0912.

The Taylorville Public Library has a program that anyone can be involved with. Director of the library Dorothy Siles says that the Friends of the Library has many purposes and programs

Tigers Double Up Cards

(Detroit, MI) -- Delmon Young and Austin Jackson plated two runs apiece as the Tigers doubled up the Cardinals, 6-3. Matt Holliday drove in a run and Daniel Descalso had two hits and scored twice for St. Louis, which has lost three-of-four. Lance Lynn gave up five runs on nine hits in five frames to fall to 10-and-3 with the loss. The second game of the three-game series is tonight with Jake Westbrook opposing Rick Porcello.

>>Schumaker Activated, Cleto Sent Down

(Detroit, MI) -- The Cardinals made a roster move before last night's game. Skip Schumaker [[ SHOO-mah-ker ]] was activated off the 15-day disabled list and started in center field. He had been out since May 31st with a hamstring strain. Pitcher Maikel Cleto was optioned to Triple-A Memphis.

>>Carpenter Making Progress

(Detroit, MI) -- Cardinals pitcher Chris Carpenter is slated to throw another side session today in Detroit. The right-hander flew to Motown with the team after throwing a successful side session at Busch Stadium. If all goes well today, Carpenter could throw batting practice this weekend in KC.

>>Cubbies Clip Sox In Chicago Showdown

(Chicago, IL) -- The Cubs won their second straight against the cross-town rival White Sox with a 2-1 victory on the South side. Travis Wood allowed one run in six innings to pick up the victory while Carlos Marmol earned his fourth save. David DeJesus singled in a pair of runs in the third to account for the scoring for the Northsiders, who clinched their first series victory since sweeping the Padres at the end of May. The three-game set ends tonight with Randy Wells and Gavin Floyd the scheduled starters.

>>NHL Draft Set For Friday

(Pittsburgh, PA) -- The 2012 NHL Entry Draft begins on Friday in Pittsburgh at the CONSOL Energy Center. The first round will take place on Friday, with rounds two-through-seven going down on Saturday. It's the first time Pittsburgh has hosted the draft since 1997. The Chicago Blackhawks have the 18th overall pick in the first round.

>>Irish Lock Up Brey With 10-Year Extension

(South Bend, IN) -- Notre Dame has locked up men's basketball coach Mike Brey into the next decade. Brey has agreed to a 10-year contract extension that runs through the 2021-22 season. He has been with the program since 2000, posting a record of 260-and-132. Brey had led the Irish to six straight 20-win seasons and eight NCAA Tournament berths in his 12 years at the helm. The 53-year-old has been named Big East Coach of the Year three times during his tenure at Notre Dame.

LeBron James cramped up, but came through. James knocked down a go-ahead three
late in the fourth quarter Tuesday night and the Miami Heat took a 3-1 series
lead over the Oklahoma City Thunder after a 104-98 win in Game 4 of the NBA Finals.

James had been sitting on the bench with apparent cramps in his legs
before checking back in to knock down the shot that put the Heat up for good
and sent them to their third straight win. Game 5 is Thursday in Miami.
James had 26 points to lead the Heat.

Russell Westbrook poured in 43 for the Thunder, but made a mental error in the final minute that may have cost his team a chance to tie the game. No team has ever come back from a 3-1 deficit
in NBA Finals history.

On Saturday Kevin E. Hix 29 of Pana was traveling east on 250 North 2670 East Road when he saw a deer coming from the South of 250 North Road.

Hix said he was driving too fast for conditions. Hix tried to brake, but the brakes did not work. Hix then drove off the road into the South ditch and hit a utility pole with his 2002 Pontiac Grand AM SE on the left back driver's side door. The vehicle came to a rest in a bean field on the South side of West Road.

Hix was taken to Pana Community Hospital for injuries and his vehicle was towed from the scene.

Taylorville Police were called to the Hillcrest Trailer Court just before 3 o'clock Sunday morning, after a call to 911 complaining to 2 naked women causing a distrurbance outside a trailer.

According to the police report, officers were met outside by 41-year-old Tammy M. Price and 27-year-old Sabrina Lowis, both of Taylorville.  Both were outside and were loud from the start according to officers.  Police asked both of them to lower their voices, but they failed to do so, as officers reported both were allegedly intoxicated.

After talking with the accuser Damon L. Price, who made the 911 call, stated he was in bed and was awakened by the pair of naked women who were yelling and screaming outside.   Both women were arrested for disorderly conduct, and Lowis was also charged with disobeying a police offer.  Both were transported to the Taylorville Police Department, where they were processed and released on a notice to appear.

With summer now officially here, more outdoor activities are taking place. Melissa Rybolt, Wellness Coordinator for Pana Community Hospital, says with skin cancer being a growing concern the hospital is making an effort to educate the public.

[audio:skincancerpch062112.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Call the hospital at 562-2131 for more information.

Taylorville native Rodney Davis is running for the U.S. Congress in the 13th district. Taylorville Mayor Greg Brotherton says Davis has already been helpful to him in his capacity as an aide to Congressman John Shimkus.

The Christian County Board met last night and one of the most important issues talked about at the meeting was the Rules of Order for County Board member’s salary and per diem.

Board Chairman Paul Schmitz says that he thinks the board members deserve their salary.

[audio:PaulSchmitzClip062012.mp3]comment here[/audio]

That measure was passed at the meeting. Chad Michel of District two had regrets of voting yes to the motion though and nearing the end of the meeting he wanted to revote on the matter as he said it was not how he was brought up to get paid even when you are not working. The vote would only have changed by one and still passed so there was not a revote on the motion, but Michel’s statement was put in the minutes of the meeting.

Also up for discussion was the request for funding for Taylorville Senior Citizens.

Schmitz says that this is to help senior citizens with medical trips.

[audio:PaulSchmitzClip02062012.mp3]comment here[/audio]

That measure was passed unanimously.

Also brought up at the meeting was a County Jurisdictional Transfer Agreement with the IL Rt. 29 intersection with County Highway #21 and #23.

[audio:PaulSchmitzClip03062012.mp3]comment here[/audio]

That measure was passed at the meeting.

Another thing brought up at the meeting by the R.O.E. was a bullying academy that could be used at schools.

Schmitz says he likes the idea.

[audio:PaulSchmitzClip04062012.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Another item brought up at the meeting was the approval of a liquor license for South Fork Entertainment a business owned by Leroy Harris who previously owned Nashville North in Taylorville. This measure passed unanimously.

Another item brought up was the Pana Animal Control Contract which costs $200 a month plus $25 for each animal caught by animal control. This measure also passed unanimously.

Other motions approved at the meeting were the claims for payment in June, the approval of a prevailing wage ordinance and the approval of resolutions for delinquent property presented by Joseph Meyer trustee. There were also a couple of items that were talked about and will be discussed at a future date. One was the county-wide aggregation for electricity that is presented by SIMEC Energy and the discussion of other energy quotes.

The next Christian County Board meeting will be on July 17.

>>Cardinals At Tigers

(Detroit, MI) -- The Cardinals continue Interleague play with the first of a three-game series against the Tigers tonight in Detroit. Lance Lynn puts his 10-and-2 mark on the line against Tigers ace Justin Verlander in the opener. The Cards will also rematch with the Royals this weekend in Kansas City.

>>Matheny Ready To Implement DH

(Detroit, MI) -- The Cardinals will have the luxury of using a designated hitter as they open a week of Interleague games in American League parks. The Cards will play three at Detroit followed by three at Kansas City. Manager Mike Matheny says he'll mix and match to give guys a break from the field.

>>Cubs Clobber White Sox

(Chicago, IL) -- Luis Valbuena's three-run homer capped a six-run seventh inning as the Cubs clobbered the White Sox, 12-3. Brian LaHair and Starlin Castro clubbed two-run homers, while Alfonso Soriano and Geovany Soto added solo shots for the Cubs. Matt Garza went six innings to improve to 3-and-5. Travis Wood opposes Jake Peavy in the second game of the series tonight.

>>Bears Give Fans Inside Look At Rookie Minicamp

(Lake Forest, IL) -- The Chicago Bears are giving fans an inside look at last month's Rookie Minicamp. A five-part video series was launched yesterday on ChicagoBears.com. The feature highlights first round pick Shea McClellin and sixth rounder Isaiah Frey as they head to Halas Hall to participate in minicamp. Chicago wrapped up its mandatory veteran minicamp last week. The Bears play their first preseason contest on Thursday, August 9th against Peyton Manning and the Denver Broncos at Soldier Field.

>>Blues Re-Sign Jackman To Three-Year Deal

(St. Louis, MO) -- Defenseman Barret Jackman is sticking around in St. Louis. The Blues have re-signed the veteran blueliner to a three-year contract. Jackman was the Blues' first-round pick in the 1999 NHL Entry Draft. He had one goal and 12 assists with a plus-20 rating in 81 games last season.

>>Blackhawks Re-Sign A Trio

(Chicago, IL) -- The Chicago Blackhawks have agreed to terms with forwards Brandon Bollig and Ben Smith on two-year contracts and goaltender Carter Hutton on a one-year deal. The 25-year-old Bollig made his NHL debut last season, appearing in 18 regular-season games and four playoff tilts for the Blackhawks. He tallied his first career goal in Game Two of the Western Conference quarterfinals against Phoenix. The 23-year-old Smith registered three goals and three assists over 19 games with Chicago over the last two seasons, adding three goals in seven playoff games.

The Christian County Sheriff's Department has issued the following arrests.

On Saturday officers saw four people acting suspiciously in the alley behind the Cork and Keg Tavern. After an investigation Roger D. Kennedy 62 of Taylorville was arrested for possession of cannabis.

On Friday officers were sent to Sonny's Place in reference to a male passed out in the backyard of a residence to the east.

On Saturday officers spoke with two women at Mach 1 on Springfield Road in reference to open alcohol in a vehicle.

On Sunday officers made a traffic stop on a vehicle for a failure to yield. After an investigation Rosa M. Davila 39 of Taylorville was arrested for driving under the influence of alcohol.

The Taylorville School Board recently took the first steps towards selling the West School property. Although there are a lot of hoops to jump through School Superintendent Dr. Gregg Fuersteneau says they might be prepared to sell the property by this fall.

The Mayor of Chicago Rahm Emmanuel last week proposed the decriminalization of marijuana for the windy city.

While many authorities have supported softening the penalties, Christian County Sheriff Bruce Kettelkamp says it should remain illegal.

[audio:sheriffkredrugs030612.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Emmanuel says the move would free up police resources to address the gang violence problems in Chicago.

The Office of Christian County State’s Attorney is up for grabs, with two candidates vying for the position. Republican candidate and current State’s Attorney Appellate Prosecutor Lorinda Lamken has been attending council meetings across Christian County.

Lamken says that she wants to get to know local dignitaries.

[audio:LorindaLamkenClip062012.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Lamken says that she wants to know what issues are affecting different communities.

[audio:LorindaLamkenClip02062012.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Lamken says knowing the issues affecting communities could help her legislate.

[audio:LorindaLamkenClip03062012.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Lamken ran for the Republican nomination for Christian County State’s Attorney unopposed in the primaries. Lamken’s opponent Democrat and current Christian County Public Defender Mike Havera defeated incumbent Tom Finks in a landslide victory of 1,811 votes to 265 votes.

Many topics were discussed at last night’s city council meeting. One of the biggest issues on the docket was the motion brought up in the personnel committee was to divide the salary, benefits, and associated costs of the cemetery sexton/Airport Superintendent between the airport and the cemetery.

The division decided at committee was to split the measure 65% to the cemetery and 35% to the airport. The measure was debated vigorously by Alderman Shawn Burtle of Ward IV. Burtle says that he wanted more information on the motion before it was brought to council.

[audio:ShawnBurtleClip061812.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Burtle also says that he wanted to see the time study that shows why there should be a 65-35 split.

[audio:ShawnBurtleClip03061812.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Burtle says that he is opposed to time studies.

[audio:ShawnBurtleClip02061812.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Alderman Rob Heberling of Ward II says that he thought that it was a bad time for Alderman Burtle to bring up the time study.

[audio:RobHeberlingClip061812.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Heberling says that the passion displayed in the debate between the Aldermen is good for the city.

[audio:RobHeberlingClip02061812.mp3]comment here[/audio]

There was a motion to table the 65-35 split between airport and cemetery that failed with a vote of seven nays and one yay. The motion was then voted on and passed with 5 yays and 3 nays.

Also brought up at the meeting was the motion to incorporate the arbitrator’s decision into the police contract. This motion was sent to committee unanimously.

Another motion brought up in the personnel committee was to reinstate the policy of increasing the rate of pay for returning summer help by fifty cents per hour to $8.75 from the normal minimum wage of $8.25 per hour. Workers under the age of 18 for the city will be paid $7.75 per hour. This motion passed with 7 yays and one nay vote coming from Alderman Earl Walters of Ward IV.

Walters says that minimum wage pay for students is enough.

[audio:EarlWaltersClip03061812.mp3]comment here[/audio]

The only other motion not passed unanimously at the meeting was the motion to allow speed bumps in the Lake Lots 1-5 area on a trial basis with the Lake lessees to pay all expenses and to review at a later date. This motion was actually tabled with a six yay two nay vote.

All other motions passed unanimously in the Lake and Airport Committee include.

The motion to allow the MINAS Morgul Open Invitation on September 28-30 at Lake Taylorville in the same area as last year and the motion to approve the May 14, 2012 Boyd Dappert Youth Reservation Council Minutes.

Unanimously passed motions, resolutions, agreements and ordinances out of committee include. The Real Estate Purchase Agreement for 26 Illini Drive, The Real Estate Exchange Agreement between the City and Louis J. and Rebecca L. Sloan, the ordinance to place no parking signs on the north side of Cleveland Street approximately 40 feet West of Snodgrass and the ordinance to place two handicapped parking spaces in front of the Knights of Columbus Hall in the 400 block of South Walnut.

The Omnibus Vote was used to all of the Water/ Environmental committee motions, which include. The motion to accept the low bid of $48,025 from IMCO for Meter Well Lids, the motion to accept the low quote of 15,300 from S&S Fencing for purchase and installation of approximately 1000 feet of chain link fence for the High School Water Tower, the motion to accept the quote of $4,487 for basic sampling excluding bacteriological samples analysis, $1540 per bacteriological sampling for $3,720, totaling in $8,207 from PDC for the 2012/13 fiscal year, the motion to accept the low bid of $51,740 from Phil Tullis Excavating for the IL Rt. 29 Water Main Extension-Tullis Property and Nashville North Water Main Looping, and the motion to approve and/or ratify the payment of bills of $183,240.57. Again all of those motions passed unanimously.

The next City Council Meeting will be on Monday July 2.

The Greater Taylorville Chamber of Commerce just hosted its new member appreciation cookout Friday, and according to Patty Hornbuckle, President and CEO of the chamber, they are already planning another get together.

[audio:pattybahnewwave061812.mp3]comment here[/audio]

The event is open to all chamber members. Newwave Communications is located on Route 104 just west of Route 29.

Here is the latest sports news: Cards fall to Royals. Beltran joins exclusive club. Torre to manage USA in World Baseball Classic. Cubs lose to BoSox. Rams need hearing for stadium renovation.

>>Royals Down Cards In 15

(St. Louis, MO) -- Yuniesky Betancourt hit a two-run home run in the top of the 15th inning to push the Royals past the Cardinals, 5-3. Matt Holliday and Allen Craig each hit a solo home run for the Cards. who are 4-and-4 in their last eight. Adam Wainwright dealt seven innings of one-run ball with eight strikeouts and reliever Eduardo Sanchez was tagged with the loss. St. Louis begins a nine-game road trip Tuesday against the Tigers.

>>Cards' Beltran Makes History

(St. Louis, MO) -- Cardinals outfielder Carlos Beltran is now the eighth member of the 300/300 club. Beltran joins Barry and Bobby Bonds, Willie Mays, Alex Rodriguez, Andre Dawson, Reggie Sanders and Steve Finley as the only players with 300 home runs and 300 stolen bases. He is the first switch hitter in the group. He stole a base in Friday's game against Kansas City. The 35-year-old has 321 homers in his career.

>>Torre To Manage Team USA In 2013 World Baseball Classic

(Durham, NC) -- Joe Torre [[ TORE-ee ]] will manage Team USA in the 2013 World Baseball Classic. The 71-year-old spent 29 seasons as a major league manager with the New York Mets, Atlanta Braves, St. Louis Cardinals, New York Yankees and Los Angeles Dodgers. He led the Yankees to four World Series titles between 1996 and 2000. Torre is currently the executive vice president of baseball operations for Major League Baseball. The U.S. has not placed higher than fourth in the World Baseball Classic, finishing sixth in its first year in 2006 and fourth in 2009.

>>Red Sox Take Rubber Match Over Cubs

(Chicago, IL) -- Boston survived a scary ninth inning to earn a 7-4 victory over the Cubs and take the rubber match of the three-game set in Chicago. Paul Maholm struck out six in as many innings but gave up three runs in the start for Chicago while Shawn Camp gave up two runs while failing to retire a batter to take the loss. Starlin Castro finished a home run shy of the cycle while driving in a pair for the Cubs, who have dropped four-of-five and eight of their last 11 contests. The Cubs begin a three-game series against the crosstown rival White Sox tonight.

 >>Dodgers Edge White Sox In Extras

(Los Angeles, CA) -- Dee Gordon singled home the winning run with two outs in the bottom of the 10th inning as the Los Angeles Dodgers edged the Chicago White Sox, 2-1, yesterday at Chavez Ravine. Dayan Viciedo's RBI single in the sixth accounted for the White Sox' lone run of the game. Addison Reed blew the save and Matt Thornton was saddled with the loss. Jose Quintana tossed eight scoreless innings of five-hit ball in a no-decision.

 >>Rams, CVC Heading To Arbitration Over Dome Renovation

(St. Louis, MO) -- The St. Louis Rams and Convention and Visitors Commission are heading to arbitration over how to renovate the Edward Jones Dome. According to the "Post-Dispatch," the CVC voted to enter into arbitration in a conference call yesterday. The two sides previously rejected one another's proposals and had until today to avoid arbitration, which could last through December 31st.

Miami, FL (Sports Network) - The Miami Heat again managed to hold off the
relentlessly persistent Oklahoma City Thunder on Sunday, eventually escaping
with a 91-85 win in Game 3 of the NBA Finals.

LeBron James, Dwyane Wade and Chris Bosh combined to score the last 15 points
for Miami, which overcame a 10-point third-quarter deficit and secured a 2-1
lead in the best-of-seven series.

"We understand our supporting cast is going to be there for us no matter
what's going on throughout the game. But if the game gets tight, one of the
three of us, or all three of us, have to make plays to bring home the win,"
sad James.

The Heat outscored the Thunder 31-15 from the free throw line and relied on
that production when their offense stalled in the third. They managed just
four field goals in the quarter, but went 13-for-14 from the charity stripe
and battled back while Kevin Durant sat on the bench with four fouls.

"We fouled too many times, said Thunder coach Scott Brooks. "We've got to do a
better job defending them without fouling."

James finished with 29 points and 14 rebounds, Wade scored 25 and Bosh had 10
and 11 rebounds. As a team, Miami shot just 37.8 percent from the field.

Durant, who was off on a potential tying baseline runner in the closing
seconds of Game 2, had 25 points to pace Oklahoma City. Russell Westbrook
scored 19 and pulled his team within one in the closing minutes, but later
missed a potential game-tying three-pointer.

Game 4 will take place on Tuesday in Miami.

Sunday's action was a bit of a role reversal for the Heat, who jumped out to
a double-digit leads in Games 1 and 2. The Thunder, though, avoided the
sluggish start in this one and looked to grab control in the third after a
back-and-forth first half.

Durant didn't miss a shot in the opening minutes of the third and poured in
eight points, but he quickly picked up his fourth foul after helping his team
to a 60-53 lead.

With their offensive juggernaut on the bench, the Thunder initially pushed the
advantage to 10 on a four-point play from Derek Fisher, but the Heat
methodically reclaimed the lead at the line.

Six of those free throws came on back-to-back possessions, when Shane Battier
and James Jones were fouled while attempting three-pointers. Later, Wade hit a
pair from the line, then found James in the corner for a trey and a 69-67 lead
entering the fourth.

"We fouled their three-point shooters, gave them six points when we were up
10," said Brooks. "It was the right call. We fouled both shooters."

Wade and James struck again midway through the final quarter, combining for an
8-0 run which turned a one-point deficit into a permanent advantage. They
highlighted the burst with consecutive three-point plays, both of which came
off Thunder turnovers.

Wade went first, taking the contact from Kendrick Perkins and getting a
floater to go after a Durant turnover. Harden then passed the ball out of
bounds near the top of the key and James took advantage, barreling down the
right side and scooping home a layup as he collided with Durant.

The Thunder managed to make one last push, sparked by Thabo Sefolosha's strip
of Wade near midcourt. The long-armed defender came up with the loose ball and
drove in for a reverse layup over the outstretched arms of Wade.

The improbable finish made it 86-83 and Westbrook buried a pullup jumper off
of a Wade miss with 1:30 left, but Miami fittingly sealed the win from the
stripe.

On the team's next possession, James found an open Bosh, who made a pair of
free throws after drawing the foul. Westbrook then found himself open on the
left wing, but his potential game-tying three found the rim.

With 29.9 seconds remaining, Brooks urged his team not to foul, but James
Harden fell backwards while guarding James near midcourt and was whistled for
the violation. James made 1-of-2 free throws and Wade later added a pair to
seal the final result.

"It seems like every game, our whole run has been games like this,' said Heat
coach Erik Spoelstra. "Down the stretch, last three minutes, got to make
plays, get free throws. We've been in these situations and I think right now
everybody is of the mind set that whatever it takes. If we get those
opportunities, then step up there with confidence."

Entering Sunday, the Thunder had yet to hold a lead in the first half of the
series. They overcame a 13-point deficit to take Game 1, but weren't as
fortunate in Game 2, which saw the Heat jump out to an 18-2 advantage
before holding on for the win.

Although Oklahoma City avoided such a start in Game 3, Miami still held a
26-20 lead after the first quarter behind 10 points from James.

Durant finished with 13 first-half points and nailed a turnaround jumper to
tie the game early in the second quarter. He drained a trey shortly before
the break for a 41-38 lead but Battier hit a pair of shots from beyond the
arc and James added a three-point play in the final minute.

Westbrook, who scored 13 in the opening half, drained a three shortly before
the buzzer and the Heat were up 47-46 at the break.

Game Notes

Miami made 88.6 percent of its foul shots (31-of-35)...Harden finished with
nine points on 2-of-10 shooting...The Thunder shot 42.9 percent from the field
as a team and went 15-of-24 from the foul line (62.5 percent).

Christian County Coroner’s Office held three inquests on Thursday night in regards to the accident that occurred on April 27.  All deaths have been ruled accidental

Kenence McKenna, age 3 months, of Pana died as a result of craniocerebral injuries due to an automobile striking a fixed object.  He was a back seat passenger within a car seat, as it struck a tree at a high rate of speed.  

Shelly McKenna, 23 years, of Pana died as a result of multiple injuries due to an automobile striking a fixed object.  She was the front seat passenger in the vehicle as it struck a tree at a high rate of speed.  There was evidence of recent marijuana, alprazolam, and trazodone ingestion, and inhalation of difluorethane from computer keyboard cleaner. 

Melissa Keller, 18, of Pana died as a result of multiple injuries due to an automobile striking a fixed object.  She was a backseat passenger of the automobile as it struck a tree at a high rate of speed.  There was evidence of recent marijuana, alprazolam, and inhalation of difluoroethane from computer keyboard cleaner. 

The Christian County Sheriff's Department has issued the following arrests.

James M. Musser 22 of Pana was arrested for aggravated battery.

Kurt S. Dickerson 30 of New Berlin was arrested on a bond forfeiture warrant for driving under the influence of drugs.

Rebecca J. Stone 28 of Roby was arrested for battery.

Alicia B. Bess 27 of Morrisonville was arrested on an original arrest warrant for battery causing bodily harm, disorderly conduct and driving under the influence of alcohol.

Lisa J. Armstrong 50 of Edinburg was arrested for driving under the influence of alcohol.

Brandy L. McMasters 35 of Taylorville was arrested for theft and an original arrest warrant on an unspecified offense.

June is Dairy Month, helping us remember how important the dairy business is, and how important dairy foods are to our diet.

Elizabeth Bliler, a local dairy farmer, says the methods have changed over the years.

[audio:dairymonth061912.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Bliler says not all the operations at a dairy farm are automated.

[audio:dairymonth2061912.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Bliler's dairy farm is located about 20 miles south of Taylorville.

The Route 29 Project has been ongoing for nearly 20 years in trying to connect Rochester to Taylorville with a four lane roadway. On Friday the last 6.3 mile stretch of road that remains two lanes went up for bidding to finish the project and complete the four lane roadway.

One problem you do not want to be having in the sweltering heat is a broken or damaged window.

Don Hoehn, of Hoehn Window and Door says that he has over 20 years of experience in the window business.

[audio:DonHoehnClip061512.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Hoehn says that he is going back to what he knows.

[audio:DonHoehnClip02061512.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Hoehn says that he takes the extra time to do things right.

[audio:DonHoehnClip03061512.mp3]comment here[/audio]

You can contact Hoehn Window and Door at 824-0425.

The Christian County Sheriff's Department has issued the following arrests.

On Thursday officers responded to a vehicle bicycle accident in the 100 block of North Washington Street officers spoke with Gerald H. Dunn 71 of O'Fallon.

It's been close to a year now since Taylorville's movie theater closed its doors. Mayor Greg Brotherton says he is excited about efforts to reopen the facility.

[audio:mayormovies061812.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Mike Wiseman of Taylorville is the local entrepreneur leading the effort to reopen the theater, which is located on the north side of the Taylorville Square.

The Greater Taylorville Chamber of Commerce held their Member Appreciation Cookout on Friday. The cookout featured burgers, brats, and plenty of drinks. It also featured some prizes awarded from chamber members.

Patty Hornbuckle the President and CEO of the Chamber says that there is a whole bunch of people who won prizes.

[audio:PattyCookoutClip61812.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Hornbuckle says that thanks people who are supporting the chamber.

[audio:PattyCookoutClip0261812.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Hornbuckle says that there is not much difference now that she is the hostess of the cookout.

[audio:PattyCookoutClip0361812.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Hornbuckle says there was a good turnout for the cookout.

[audio:PattyCookoutClip0461812.mp3]comment here[/audio]

The Greater Taylorville Chamber of Commerce is located at 108 West Market Street on the south side of the Taylorville Square.

Christian County Coroner Amy Calvert Winans has released the name of the man that was involved in the crash in Christian County near Assumption on Route 51 at 12:53 pm on Wednesday. 

James David Kindermann, 46, of Decatur was pronounced dead on scene by Deputy Coroner Tom Latonis.  An autopsy is scheduled for later today.  The investigation is being handled by Illinois State Police. 

The Christian County Sheriff's Department has issued the following arrests.

Keffery L. Cothern 25 of Pana was arrested for domestic battery, battery, and resisting a peace officer.

Shawn L. Meiseman 35 of Charleston was arrested on a bond forfeiture warrant for deceptive practice.

Nathan E. Pinnell 29 of Morrisonville was arrested on a bond forfeiture warrant for operating a vehicle without insurance.

The Christian County Sheriff’s Office, in cooperation with the Christian County Coroner, is investigating the death of Leon D. Hart, 51, of Taylorville.

On Wednesday, June 13th, 2012, at approximately 9:40am the Christian County Sheriff’s Office received a report of an unoccupied vehicle parked at the rear of the Edinburg Cemetery property.

Deputies from the Christian County Sheriff’s Office, along with officers from the Edinburg and Taylorville Police Departments, responded and conducted a search of the area. During the course of this search the victim was discovered in a wooded area near the cemetery. He was pronounced dead at the scene from an apparent hanging.

This matter is currently being investigated by the Christian County Sheriff's Office and Christian County Coroner.

If you have any information concerning these, or any other crimes, notify the Christian County Sheriff’s Office (824-4961), their local law enforcement agency or Christian County Crime Stoppers at (1-800-568-TIPS) or (824-9100).

The Greater Taylorville Chamber of Commerce is sponsoring its annual new member cookout Friday. Patty Hornbuckle, President and CEO of the chamber says it starts tomorrow morning.

[audio:cookoutpatty061412.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Again, that starts at 11:30 Friday morning.

The Taylorville School Board this week voted to take the first steps towards selling the West School property. Taylorville School Superintendent Dr. Gregg Fuersteneau says it's stage one of a process which the board has been considering for some time now.

The bidding process for Route 29 will begin tomorrow at 10 am. The only stretch of land on Route 29 from Taylorville to Springfield that is not four lanes is just over 6 miles long and will be completed at the end of this process.

With Governor Quinn's recent cuts on Illinois Cares RX many people may need to find another way to pay for their prescription medication.

After the recent passing by the state house, of the $1.00 tax increase on cigarettes and other tobacco products many people may want to quit smoking, but don't know where to start.

Nancy Martin Administrator at the Christian County Health Department says that the Illinois Tobacco Quitline is a great resource.

[audio:NancyMartinClip061412.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Martin says that she has personally seen people use the line and quit smoking.

[audio:NancyMartinClip02061412.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Martin says that the Quitline will help you through the process of quitting smoking.

[audio:NancyMartinClip03061412.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Again the Quitline phone number is 1-866-QUIT-YES and the Christian County Health Department is located at 902 West Springfield Road in Taylorville.

'Tis the season for golf outings. It's a great way for organizations to raise money. Chris Weitenhiller of the Christian County YMCA says their recent golf event was a big success.

The People's Bank and Trust in Pana will be holding an American Flag Retirement Ceremony on Thursday June 14th at noon.

Illinois State Police Officers responded to a fatal crash on US Route 51 one quarter mile north of County Road 900. Janet Tankersley 80 of Assumption was traveling south on US Route 51.

The driver of a 1998 green Hyundai was traveling north on US Route 51 just north of County Road 900, when for unknown reasons, the vehicle crossed over into the southbound road and struck Tankersley's vehicle head on.

Both vehicles came to a rest in the roadway. The driver of the green Hyundai was pronounced dead at the scene by the Christian County Coroner's Office. The crash occurred on Wednesday at 12:53 pm.

Tankersley was flown to Memorial Hospital in Springfield with non-life threatening injuries. US Route 51 was closed for approximately two hours before traffic resumed.

The Annual Prairie Rose Health Care Centers Health Fair is coming up. Amanda Spayde Community Relations Coordinator at Peterson Healthcare says that the event has many health related things going on.

The Christian County Sherriff's Department has issued the following arrests

On Saturday officers were sent to 1231 West Vine Street in regards to a burglary. The juvenile suspect left the scene before officer's arrival.

The juvenile was located and brought to the Taylorville Police Department by his father. The juvenile was then placed under arrest, processed, and released to his father.

On Saturday officers were sent to the 1500 block of West Elm Street in regards to a child allegedly found in a parking lot. Officers arrived and after an investigation Josh Haines 27 of Taylorville and Amanda L. Allen 23 of Vandalia were arrested for child endangerment.

Both were transported to the Taylorville Police Department, processed, and released on a notice to appear. The children in question were turned over to their grandmother.

On Friday 911 reported that there was a male subject in Casey's West who displayed a firearm. Officers responded and located Zachary D. Liberty 27 of Taylorville walking westbound on West Elm Street.

Liberty was secured in handcuffs and placed in a patrol vehicle. A black pellet gun was located nearby the scene. Liberty was charged with unlawful aggravated use of a weapon, criminal trespass to property, and disorderly conduct.

Liberty was transported to the Christian County Correctional Center for lodging.

If you have driven by Lakeshore Golf Course in recent weeks, you may have noticed extensive improvements. Boldig Enterprises, the company managing the golf course this year, has spent tens of thousands of dollars upgrading the outside.

What you may not have seen is the work done on the inside facilities. Jason boldig says they have done extensive work on that as well.

[audio:letterlysmithfarm061312.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Boldig says the restrooms have also received a substantial face lift.

The University of Illinois Extension is once again sponsoring the annual Dudley Smith Farm Field Day. Gary Letterly, extension educator, says the event is next week.

[audio:letterlysmithfarm061312.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Regional Radio

s Jared White will broadcast live from the Dudley Smith Farm. Again, that event will be on Thursday June 21st.

Rodney Davis the Republican candidate for US Congress in the Illinois 13^th Congressional District held a fundraiser on Monday with former Governor Jim Edgar at the VFW in Taylorville.

There was a ribbon cutting ceremony held on Monday at the Taylorville Municipal Airport to unveil the new Solar Panels that were purchased by the City of Taylorville. Many people were at the event, including US Congressman for the Illinois 19^th district John Shimkus.

Shimkus says he likes an all the above energy plan.

[audio:JohnShimkusSolarClip061212.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Taylorville Mayor Greg Brotherton was also at the event and says that the solar panels faced some opposition in the beginning because of the cost.

[audio:MayorBrothertonSolarClip0612121.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Brotherton says that the panels will reduce the city’s electric bill.

[audio:MayorBrothertonSolarClip020612121.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Brotherton says that there were many contributing factors to the location of the panels.

[audio:MayorBrothertonSolarClip030612121.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Brotherton says that there will not be much upkeep on the panels.

[audio:MayorBrothertonSolarClip040612121.mp3]comment here[/audio]

The event featured a look at the panels, some refreshments, and also featured some solar energy prizes.

The Taylorville School Board met last night, and discussed many pressing issues. One of the main issues brought up was the resolution for the sale of West School property.

Superintendent Gregg Fuersteneau says that this is the beginning of the process.

[audio:GreggFuersteneauBoardClip040612121.mp3]comment here[/audio]

That resolution needed ¾’s of the board members approval. The resolution passed with all members present voting to approve the resolution.

Also brought up at the meeting was the consideration of the Christian-Montgomery Regional Office of Education Truant Officer Assessment Agreement.

Fuersteneau says that the truancy officer helps principals get students to school.

[audio:GreggFuersteneauBoardClip020612121.mp3]comment here[/audio]

That agreement also passed unanimously.

Another item brought up at the meeting was the Consideration of the Elementary Computer Lab Bids.

Fuersteneau says that these purchases were planned out 5 years ago.

[audio:GreggFuersteneauBoardClip030612121.mp3]comment here[/audio]

The Board approved the bid by Bytespeed which offered the lowest price and has worked with the district in previous years. The current computers used at the elementary schools were 11 years old and will be recycled at BLH Computers in Springfield.

Another important issue at the meeting discussed was the cash flow of the district. The cash flow at the end of the period for this school year was positive.

Fuersteneau says that having a positive cash flow is important.

[audio:GreggFuersteneauBoardClip0612121.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Other items passed at the meeting unanimously included the recommendation that diplomas be awarded to James Johnson and Zachary Morganson, who have fulfilled the necessary requirements for graduation, the Consideration of the Notice of Appointment of School Treasurer for a term of one year beginning July 1, 2012, the consideration of a resolution that certifies a prevailing wage rate for the construction trades in Christian County, the consideration of workers compensation, property and casualty insurance and renewal of WCSIT Pooling Agreement, the consideration of Sports Bid for Fall 2012, the Consideration of a resolution for the abatement of $100,000 of the Working Cash Fund to the Fire Prevention and Safety Fund, and the Consideration of Board Policies. Again all of those motions passed unanimously.

The School Board went into Executive Session to approve recommendations for employment.

Teachers hired included: Angela Browne, Title I Reading at North School, Erika Collier PREP Teacher at the North PREP Center, Carmen Grendze French at Taylorville High School and Stephen Keller 7^th Grade Math at Taylorville Junior High School.

Also there were people hired for extracurricular activities which included: Kim Pembroke for Pom Pons at Taylorville Junior High School, Rachel Wolfe Pom Pons Volunteer Assistant at Taylorville Junior High School, J.D. Pickett Football Volunteer Assistant at Taylorville High School, Gerry Stout Football Volunteer Assistant at Taylorville High School, Jeremy Alwerdt Football Volunteer Assistant at Taylorville High School, and Kathy Fergin Spring Musical Director Volunteer at Taylorville High School.

The next board meeting will occur on July 9, 2012.

The Christian County Sheriff's Department issued the following arrests.

Although it generated a fair amount of controversy, the solar panels are now in place and functioning at Taylorville Municipal Airport.

Mayor Greg Brotherton, who supported the installation, says the panels produce electricity all year long.

[audio:solarpanelribboncut061112.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Part of the cost for the panels was covered by a $5,000 award from the Reader's Digest "We Hear You, America" contest.

The Mayor says they will hold a ribbon cutting ceremony concerning the solar panels this afternoon at 2 at the airport.

A Taylorville native is the candidate for U.S. Congress in the 13th district. Rodney Davis says the differences between him and his opponent, Dr. David Gill, will make for a spirited race:

[audio:davisongill061112.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Rodney Davis was chosen as the nominee by Republican officials after incumbent Tim Johnson announced he would not run, just days after he won the nomination in the primary. Davis secured the nomination over seven other Republican hopefuls.

A longstanding small business in Taylorville, Larry’s Service Center is moving to a new location.

Larry Barry the owner of the business says that he hopes to be in the new building by the end of June.

[audio:LarryBarryClip061112.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Barry says that there are no differences between the new building and the old one.

[audio:LarryBarryClip02061112.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Barry says that the reason for the relocation was environmental.

[audio:LarryBarryClip03061112.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Larry’s Service Center is currently located at 401 North Webster Street in Taylorville, and their new location will be across from Taylorville High School.

The Christian County Sheriff's Department has issued the following arrests.

William R. Blue 26 of Springfield was arrested on a bond forfeiture warrant for an unspecified statute.

Randy Mildenberger 27 of Springfield was arrested for possession of cannabis, possession of drug paraphernalia, and resisting a peace officer.

Andrew M. Whitehead 19 of Springfield was arrested for illegal consumption of liquor.

Cynthia A. Walters 53 of Decatur was arrested for driving under the influence of alcohol.

Steven L. Smith 23 of Springfield was arrested for driving on a suspended license, possession of cannabis, and possession of drug paraphernalia.

Donald E. Runyon 34 of Kincaid was arrested for possession of meth.

Jake E. Tucker 20 of Taylorville was arrested for theft, criminal trespassing, and consumption of liquor.

Sirens were heard in Taylorville on Friday due to two different EMS calls received. One was at 8:38 pm and went to 59 Miller Lane and the other EMS call was at 9:03 pm and was sent to White Avenue.

A grass fire occurred on Thursday at 900 North 1400 East Road Taylorville. Firefighters received call at 3:08 pm, arrived at 3:19 pm, controlled the fire at 3:25 pm and the last unit was cleared at 3:25 pm.

Kids in the Shelbyville area who are looking for something to do this summer may want to consider a series of programs being put on by the Army Corps of Engineers.

A new computer scam has been dealt with by authorities, but still may affect your computer. Senior Citizens advocate Mac McGuire says the virus-like program would misdirect users.

[audio:maccomputerscam1061212.mp3]comment here[/audio]

McGuire says if you don't implement a simple fix, you will be unable to get on the internet.

[audio:maccomputerscam2061212.mp3]comment here[/audio]

McGuire says to fix the problem for free, go to dcwg.org for the "DNS Changer Check-up".

Big Brother’s Big Sisters and Regional Radio recently held a game drive for listeners to help give games to BBBS for their big’s and little’s to play with.

Vanessa Wiseman with Big Brothers Big Sisters says that she was surprised with the listeners’ response.

[audio:VanessaWisemanClipBBBS060812.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Wiseman says that the board games will be put into the schools.

[audio:VanessaWisemanClipBBBS02060812.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Wiseman says that Big Brothers Big Sister’s serves a multitude of counties.

[audio:VanessaWisemanClipBBBS03060812.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Wiseman says that even though the school based program is closed, kids can still participate in the community based program.

[audio:VanessaWisemanClipBBBS04060812.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Big Brother’s Big Sisters Christian County is located upstairs above US Bank in Taylorville on the square.

Sharon Walker who works for Ameren recently was checking meters for her job. Then Walker found a wallet while checking a meter. Walker then gave the wallet to the Christian County Sheriff’s Office who gave it to its rightful owner. The wallet contained nearly $500. Walker was honored on Thursday at the Christian County Sheriff’s Office with a Certificate of Recognition.

Walker says that it is good to be recognized.

[audio:SharonWalkerClip060812.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Christian County Sheriff Bruce Kettelkamp says that it would have been easy for Walker to take the wallet.

[audio:SheriffKettelkampClip060812.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Kettelkamp also said, “Ms. Walker’s actions that day represented the finest in personal integrity and professional commitment. I am pleased to be able to award this Certificate of Recognition to her on behalf of the Sheriff’s Office and the citizens of Christian County.”

This time of year, many of us start to think about grilling out. If you're hungry for a cookout, you're in luck. Tad Mayhall of the Shelbyville Chamber of Commerce says the Shelby County 4H has a cookout set up for this weekend.

[audio:tadcookout060812.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Again, that event takes place Saturday at the 4H Fairgrounds.

An event designed to show appreciation for Members of the Greater Taylorville Chamber of Commerce is coming up.

Patty Hornbuckle, President and CEO of the chamber, says all chamber members, new and old, are invited.

[audio:pattycookout060812.mp3]comment here[/audio]

This is the 15th year the chamber has sponsored the event.

The People’s Bank and Trust in Pana is having their 7^th annual Community Appreciation Celebration today.

The Christian County Sheriff's Department has issued the following arrests.

Brian E. Disney 33, of Edinburg was arrested on an original arrest warrant for violating an order of protection.

Justin Droke 28, of Taylorville was arrested on a bond forfeiture warrant for battery causing bodily harm.

On Thursday Officers responded to a person who said unknown subjects took his son's bicycle at Casey's West.

In order for the city to continue to thrive, it needs an industrial park to attract business. That's according to Taylorville Mayor Greg Brotherton.

[audio:mayorindustpark060712.mp3]comment here[/audio]

The Mayor says he expects to call another meeting of area leaders sometime in August to discuss ideas for financing the industrial park.

There are so many people in the military overseas who receive packages from people, but what about those who are not receiving care packages?

Pat Garlick of Pride Packages says that her own experience got her to start the organization.

[audio:PatGarlickClip060712.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Garlick says that snack foods are a need right now for Pride Packages.

[audio:PatGarlickClip02060712.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Garlick has been featured on Oprah. Pride Packages serves the Marines, Navy, Army, and the Air Force.

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers invites you and your pet to join them for a dog-gone good time at this year’s 18^th Annual Lake Shelbyville Dog-O-Rama Dog Show. The event will be on July 7 at the Coon Creek Recreation Area Amphitheater in Shelbyville.

The Christian County Sheriff's Department has issued the following arrests

Zachary C. Dionne 28 of Pana was arrested on a bond forfeiture warrant for driving under the influence of alcohol.

Thomas A. Herman 32 of Taylorville was arrested on a bond forfeiture warrant for an unspecified statute.

Jeff L. Rhodes 41 of Pana was arrested on a bond forfeiture warrant for theft.

Cory J. Pasqueno 29 of Owaneco was arrested on a bond forfeiture warrant for theft.

Amanda M. Huber 19 of Taylorville was arrested for consumption of liquor.

Daniel J. Ehrhardt 19 of Taylorville was arrested for consumption of liquor, possession of drug paraphernalia, and possession of cannabis.

Education costs continue to rise, and at the same time, more people are seeking post graduate degrees. Scott Stallman of Lincoln Land Community College says getting your first two years at community college can really save money.

[audio:stallmanllcc060712.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Stallman also says the college offers courses for those who are not necessarily working towards a degree.

[audio:stallmanllcc2060712.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Lincoln Land Community College has satellite campuses at several locations, including Taylorville.

The state house recently passed a tax increase on cigarettes of $1.00 per pack. This legislation has been sent to Governor Pat Quinn’s desk for him to sign.

Taylorville native Kathy Drea with the American Lung Association says that the increase will keep some kids from smoking.

[audio:KathyDreaTaxIncreaseClip060612.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Drea says that the increase will not hurt convenience stores.

[audio:KathyDreaTaxIncreaseClip02060612.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Drea says that the bill includes many other tobacco products, not just cigarettes.

[audio:KathyDreaTaxIncreaseClip03060612.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Drea says that she has already seen an increase in people who want to quit.

[audio:KathyDreaTaxIncreaseClip04060612.mp3]comment here[/audio]

The measure passed 60-52 in the state house with opponents of the bill saying that the bill could force some people to buy cigarettes out of state.

The Greater Taylorville Chamber of Commerce held their 15^th annual Golf Outing on Friday at Lakeshore Golf Course. The Golf Outing was held in memory of Fred Ronnow.

Patty Hornbuckle the President and CEO of the Greater Taylorville Chamber of Commerce says that the event had many people playing.

[audio:PattyGolfOutingClip060612.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Hornbuckle says that it has been a difficult year with the passing of Ronnow and Helen Young.

[audio:PattyGolfOutingClip02060612.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Hornbuckle says that many people were helped out at the golf outing.

[audio:PattyGolfOutingClip03060612.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Tournament team winners included Ahlstrom Team I of Shelly Cappellin Mark Sochel, Butch Wollen and Steve McMahon in first place and Dunn Co. Team of Jim Griffin, Ricco Burdick, Scott Whalen and Sonny Hohmeier in second place.

The campaign is in full swing for the Illinois 13th congressional district. Taylorville native Rodney Davis was chosen to run on the Republican ticket after Representative Tim Johnson decided to step down just weeks after securing the nomination.

For the Boldig family, golfing is in the blood. Jason Boldig says he and his dad and mom are all involved in the management of Lakeshore Golf Course in Taylorville, and their interest in the game goes way back.

[audio:boldigjason060612.mp3]comment here[/audio]

The Boldig family is managing Lakeshore Golf Course this year after thousands of dollars worth of improvements were implemented.

Taylorville High School has learned that the Apollo Conference has approved the application for admittance that was sent by the Taylorville School Board. The application was sent by the school board on May 14, 2012 and the move will become effective for the 2014-15 school year.

Taylorville will join current members of the conference that include Charleston, Effingham, Mattoon, Mt. Zion, Paris, and Salem.

Superintendent Greg Fuersteneau says that transportation costs will be fairly close to the current Central State Eight costs.

[audio:FuersteneauApolloClip0605121.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Fuersteneau also says that this move will help Taylorville play similar sized high schools.

[audio:FuersteneauApolloClip020605121.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Fuersteneau says that there were no strains in the relationship between Taylorville and the CS8.

[audio:FuersteneauApolloClip030605121.mp3]comment here[/audio]

This will be Taylorville’s second stint in the Apollo Conference. Taylorville was a member from 1981 to 1993.

The City Council Meeting was held Monday night with all aldermen present, and many things were discussed. Mayor Greg Brotherton discussed the Tenaska Project and the frustration of it not being put up for a vote in the spring session. Alderman Rob Heberling of Ward II says that the Tenaska Project is in jeopardy.

[audio:RobHeberlingCityCouncilClip02060512.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Also brought up at the meeting was the possible purchase of a property at 606 East Gandy Street for Oak Hill Cemetery. This was discussed, but eventually was sent to the finance committee due to liens on the property.

Heberling says that there will be hurdles in purchasing the property.

[audio:RobHeberlingCityCouncilClip03060512.mp3]comment here[/audio]

There was a resolution brought up at the meeting to levy an additional tax of .02% for the Library Purchase of Sites and Buildings, for the Construction and Equipment of Buildings, and for the Maintenance, Repairs, and Alterations of Library Buildings and Equipment.

Heberling says that the verbiage in this resolution is misleading.

[audio:RobHeberlingCityCouncilClip060512.mp3]comment here[/audio]

The resolution passed unanimously.

Some other items brought up at the meeting were a resolution of a Public Utility Easement Agreement with Goeckner, Inc. which passed unanimously, an ordinance to ascertain the prevailing rate of wages for laborers, workmen, and mechanics employed on public works which also passed unanimously and an ordinance which amended title 8, chapter 4, section 9 of the city code addressing an increase in water rates for industrial users whose premises are located outside of the city’s corporate limits, this ordinance also passed unanimously.

There were also many motions brought up from the Street and Sewer Committee Report all of the following motions passed unanimously from that.

The Motion to approve the Annual Fourth of July Parade on July 4^th at 10:00 A.M. with the same route as past years

The Motion to approve the Kiwanis Club’s request to solicit funds at the corner of Webster and Main Cross for their Peanut Days October 5& 6, 2012

The Motion to allow the temporary closing of approximately 160 feet of the South End of Walnut Street at the intersection of Camp Street for a real estate and personal property auction on June 23, 2012 from 8:00 A.M. to 4:00 P.M.

The Motion to allow the Taylorville High School Band Boosters to solicit funds at the corner of Webster and Main Cross on July 21, 2012 

The Motion to block the portion of West Market Street between Washington and Main Street from 3:00 P.M. to 6:30 P.M. on Friday, June 8, 2012 for WCIA, Channel 3 “Our Town” live broadcast promotion 

The Motion to direct the City Attorney to prepare an ordinance placing No Parking Signs on the North Side of Cleveland Street approximately 50 feet West of Snodgrass

The Motion to address all stop signs or need for stop signs on all east/west roads that intersect with Snodgrass Street

The Motion to direct the City Attorney to prepare an ordinance placing two Handicapped Parking Spaces in front of the Knights of Columbus Hall in the 400 Block of South Walnut

The Motion to approve Pay Request #5 from McIntire & Company in the amount of $362,987.49 for the Kenmore-Phase III-Storm Sewer Project

The Motion to approve Final Pay Request #8 from Feutz Contractors, Inc., in the amount of $15,909.10 for Ward II-Kenmore-Phase I-Langley Road Storm Sewer Project

And The Motion to scrap or sell the 1995 TV Van & 1962 Semi Tanker

Again all of those motions passed unanimously. There was also a motion from the public facilities committee that was to direct the Mayor to direct the City Hall Janitor to do the painting of the Municipal Building, This motion passed unanimously as well.

The next City Council Meeting will be on June 18.

The BP Store just off the Taylorville Square is under new ownership. Employees Wendy, Kate and Diana all say some things have changed, while some have stayed the same.

[audio:bpladies060412.mp3]comment here[/audio] 

New owner Mike Patel just recently joined the Greater Taylorville Chamber of Commerce.

Even though a vote on the Tenaska Project has been postponed again, there are hopeful signs of economic development in Christian County.

Taylorville Mayor Greg Brotherton says some new jobs will be coming to the area.

[audio:mayorjobs060412.mp3]comment here[/audio]

It was recently announced that the completion of Route 29 has been included on the Illinois Department of Transportation's list of projects to be started this year. Bids for that work will be accepted starting June 15th.

The Christian County Sheriff's Department has issued the following arrests.

Joseph M. Chronister 26 of Nokomis was arrested for possession of drug paraphernalia, cannabis and on a bond forfeiture warrant for driving under the influence of alcohol.

Jessica L. Jones 27 of Nokomis was arrested for resisting a peace officer.

Benjamin T. Baldwin 34 of Shumway was arrested for domestic battery.

Dawn M. Loeser 41 of Pawnee was arrested for driving under the influence of alcohol.

Justin L. Price 20 of Taylorville was arrested on a bond forfeiture warrant for manufacturing/delivery of cannabis.

Alexander Shanks 19 of Olney was arrested on a bond forfeiture warrant for consumption of liquor.

Allison R. Wheeler 36 of Taylorville was arrested on a bond forfeiture warrant for an unspecified statute.

Breann N. Johanningmeier was arrested on a bond forfeiture warrant for driving with a suspended license.

James M. Merrifield 25 of Collinsville was arrested on a bond forfeiture warrant for theft.

Aaron W. Rule 37 of Mechanicsburg was arrested on a bond forfeiture warrant for an unspecified statute.

Christopher L. Morris 23 of Assumption was arrested on a bond forfeiture warrant for an unspecified statute.

It's not very often you see a horse in the grocery store or restaurant but it could soon be a reality in Illinois. Lawmakers have approved a bill allowing people who are vision impaired to use miniature horses as service animals.

They'll provide an alternative to those who have severe allergies to dogs, which are more commonly used to help those who have trouble seeing. The measure passed both the House and the Senate and is sitting on the governor's desk for final approval.

It's the kids that are often left in the middle when parents split but now, Illinois lawmakers are stepping in to make sure custodial parents honor court ordered visitation rights. Those who don't could lose their driver's license, spend up to six months in jail, or face a 500-dollar fine.

It's part of the Steve Watkins bill, which is headed to Governor Quinn's desk. The bill was spearheaded by a Central Illinois couple whose son was shot and killed when trying to pick his daughter up for a scheduled visit.

The high price of metal has brought about a new crime threat. A favorite of thieves is copper, and Christian County Sheriff Bruce Kettelkamp says farmers should keep their eyes peeled for suspicious activity.

[audio:sheriffcoppertheft060512.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Sheriff Kettelkamp says you should report anything unusual or suspicious.

Former Willey's Station resident, Taylorville High School graduate and New Jersey Governor and US Senator of New Jersey Jon Corzine could soon find himself in some legal trouble over his failed securities firm. Corzine, the former chairman of MF Global, may reportedly be liable for some of the one-point-six-billion dollars in lost customer money.

"The Wall Street Journal" reports bankruptcy trustee, James Giddens, may sue Corzine and other MF Global executives for claims that include breach of fiduciary duty and negligence.

Giddens noted in a lengthy report filed in bankruptcy court this morning, that MF Global managers did not sufficiently monitor systems resulting in customer property being used to fund "extraordinary liquidity drains elsewhere in the business." Corzine resigned from the company last November, just a few days after MF Global filed for bankruptcy.

On Thursday June 14,the Shelby Electric Cooperative will be sponsoring a Free Energy Efficiency Workshop with Doug Rye.

Kevin Bernson the Vice President of Media and Public Relations at Shelby Electric says that Doug Rye has been a leader in the energy efficiency field for years.

[audio:KevinBernsonClip060112.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Bernson also says that many different energy efficiency topics will be discussed at the event.

[audio:KevinBernsonClip02060112.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Bernson says that the event is a good way to learn more about energy efficiency.

[audio:KevinBernsonClip03060112.mp3]comment here[/audio]

To RSVP to the event call 800-677-2612 or email rsvpdougrye@shelbyelectric.coop.

The BP Shop in downtown Taylorville celebrated Customer Appreciation Day yesterday, and was also admitted into The Greater Taylorville Chamber of Commerce with a ribbon cutting ceremony.

Mike Patel the owner of the BP Shop since late January says that the Customer Appreciation Day is to thank customers for their business.

[audio:MikePatelClip060112.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Patel also says that being in The Greater Taylorville Chamber of Commerce will be a good resource.

[audio:MikePatelClip02060112.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Patel says that the BP Shop has a family environment.

[audio:MikePatelClip03060112.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Patel says that many new things have been added to the shop since he took over ownership in late January.

[audio:MikePatelClip04060112.mp3]comment here[/audio]

The BP Shop is located at 301 West Main Cross in Taylorville.

The General Assembly wrapped up their spring session on Thursday. One of the things passed through was a bill to increase gaming in the State of Illinois. State Representative Wayne Rosenthal says that he worries whether or not the gaming legislation will generate the income needed.

[audio:WayneRosenthalClip060412.mp3]comment here[/audio]

The General Assembly also passed a removal of The General Assembly Scholarship because the scholarship was being used improperly by some politicians. Rosenthal says that he understands the abuses of The General Assembly Scholarship, but he does not think the scholarship should be eliminated.

[audio:WayneRosenthalClip02060412.mp3]comment here[/audio]

There was one thing that did not happen that was also an issue at the end of the spring session. There was nothing passed in regards to pension reform. There is going to be a special session to make sure something is passed though. Rosenthal says that what people were promised by the state is what they deserve.

[audio:WayneRosenthalClip03060412.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Governor Pat Quinn has stated that he plans on meeting with legislative leaders next week in hopes of negotiating a deal.

Rural Electric will be having their 75^th annual meeting this Thursday. Dana Smith the Director of Member and Public Relations at Rural Electric says that there is a lot of history with the coop.